Anything You Can Do, IP Can Do Better

What’s the deal with IP-Enabled Access Control

If you’re new to all of this access control business, getting a feel for the state of the art can be a little daunting. IP-Enabled Access Control — or access control that makes use of the internet is to a basic card reader what the iPhone X is to the Motorola Razor. Integration of access control and WiFi has affected our industry just as WiFi integration has affected every other industry: by making things more effortless for all parties involved. Let’s take a look at why.

FUNCTIONALITY

First, let’s talk about basic unit-to-unit functionality. Where traditional card readers would send a card number to a control panel where a security personnel would then decide whether or not to unlock the door, IP readers make the call and control the locks themselves. They’re able to do this because they employ both a relay for controlling door access and internal memory for recalling large databases of users. And because they run over Wi-Fi, they’re able to monitor who has access to premises and when in real-time. It’s sort of like having a doorman without the, well, man.

FLEXIBILITY

IP-Enabled Access Control’s use of the internet allows it to be a uniquely flexible security solution. Gone are the days of 32 readers per line caps—there are no longer limits on how many readers can communicate via the same line. This also means that your security system can grow along with your business. Should you ever need to add more facilities, an initial investment in IP-Enabled Access Control spares you from having to install new communication lines and controllers every time you expand.

MAINTENANCE

Like the subway during New York rush hour, one reader’s failure in some of the old security systems used to cause problems for the entire system. With IP-Enabled Access Control that isn’t the case. If a single reader experiences problems, maintenance professionals can be alerted to its location immediately and your facility’s other access points will resume business as usual. There is also much less training required to manage IP-Enabled systems, so the fact that this type of access control is easier on your maintenance teams is really just the cherry on top.